2026 is the predicted year of the prediction market? Which stocks and cryptocurrencies should I buy

Next year is likely to be the true "year one" for prediction markets. On one hand, major global events are occurring intensively: Winter Olympics, World Cup, Asian Games combined with the Super Bowl, NBA, F1, eSports tournaments; on the other hand, there are Federal Reserve Chair appointments, US midterm elections, and elections in 18 countries. The density of these events determines the trading frequency and cash flow of prediction markets, which is the fundamental reason for their explosive growth.

In terms of stocks, Coinbase (COIN) is the most direct beneficiary. The exchange is evolving into a "financial super app," where prediction markets, stocks, and derivatives will enhance user stickiness and revenue structure. DraftKings (DKNG) represents the sports prediction sector, leveraging its mature sports user base to upgrade betting into higher-frequency event trading. More conservative is ICE, as the infrastructure provider for exchanges; once prediction markets become compliant, its valuation logic could be reshaped.

Regarding cryptocurrencies, a more prudent approach is not to bet on a single platform but to focus on infrastructure. Chainlink (LINK) is the core oracle for prediction markets, responsible for data and settlement of real-world events. Regardless of which platform wins, it will benefit long-term. As for smaller prediction market tokens, they are only suitable for very small position speculative trades.

In summary: use stocks to gain regulatory dividends, invest in infrastructure for sector growth, and treat prediction markets as "casino shareholders" rather than gamblers.